This unique Handbook provides a sophisticated scholarly overview of the most advanced thought
regarding the idea of life after death. Its comprehensive coverage encompasses historical
religious philosophical and scientific thinking. Starting with an overview of ancient thought
on the topic The Palgrave Handbook of the Afterlife examines in detail the philosophical
coherence of the main traditional notions of the nature of the afterlife including heaven hell
purgatory and rebirth. In addition (and breaking with traditional conceptions) it also explores
the most recent exciting advance - digital models. Later sections include analysis of various
possible metaphysical accounts that might make sense of the afterlife (including substance
dualism emergent dualism and materialism) and the science of near death experiences as well as
the links between human psychology and our attitude to the afterlife. Key features: . Grounded
in the most advanced philosophical theological and scientific thinking . Contributions by
eminent scholars from the world's top universities . Balanced treatment of fundamental issues
that are relevant to everyone . Diverse approaches ranging from the religious to the scientific
from the optimistic to the pessimistic . A major section on the meaning of the afterlife which
includes chapters on fear purpose evil and issues regarding identity The Palgrave Handbook
of the Afterlife is essential reading for scholars researchers and advanced students
researching attitudes to and effects of beliefs about death and life after death from
philosophical historical religious psychological and scientific perspectives.
